Psyllium husk is a fiber supplement often used for constipation, but it may also relieve heartburn symptoms. It’s usually safe and effective to try, but there are some precautions to consider.
Psyllium husk comes from a shrub-like herb plant that’s grown all over the world. Its high soluble fiber content is what makes it an effective bulk-forming laxative.
It’s commonly sold in powder or wafer form as an over-the-counter (OTC) laxative. But psyllium husk is a popular dietary supplement for other reasons, including its ability to relieve heartburn symptoms.
Read on to learn more about how to use psyllium husk for heartburn.
Heartburn is a burning feeling in the center of your chest caused by stomach acid moving up into your esophagus, or food pipe. It can be occasional symptoms or a chronic condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Adding psyllium husk fiber to a low fiber diet may help reduce the symptoms of heartburn and nonerosive GERD, especially in people who also experience constipation.
It’s thought that this is because the fiber may bind the nitric oxide in foods, helping to increase pressure in the valve connecting your esophagus and stomach. Nitric oxide causes your muscles and blood vessels to relax, reducing pressure on this valve and making it easier for reflux to happen.
Fiber may reduce the effect of nitric oxide. This helps to increase the pressure of the valve, which reduces the amount of reflux and heartburn symptoms.
Some research has shown that psyllium husk fiber is more effective than medication at managing heartburn and GERD. A
Psyllium doesn’t usually cause serious side effects and is well tolerated by most people. But when taking it for the first time, you may notice increased gas and bloating.
Psyllium supplements should not be taken by:
- children
- anyone with colon or rectal cancer history
- anyone with a bowel obstruction or bowel spasm history
- anyone with difficulty swallowing, or a narrowing of your esophagus (stricture)
- people with phenylketonuria, an inherited metabolic disorder
- people allergic to psyllium
It’s also possible for psyllium to interfere with your body’s absorption of some medications. Generally, don’t take psyllium at the same time as other medications.
The drugs that psyllium is most likely to affect include:
- digoxin (Lanoxin)
- nitrofurantoin (Furadantin, Macrobid, Macrodantin)
- salicylates (aspirin)
Speak with a doctor or healthcare professional to discuss any supplements or medications you’re already taking and if it’s safe for you to include psyllium husk.
While psyllium husk is an effective soluble fiber supplement, you can also increase your
- seeds
- nuts
- oats
- barley
- vegetables
- fruits
- legumes (beans, peas)
For insoluble fiber, consider:
- whole grain products
- fruits with edible peels (apples, grapes, berries)
- vegetables
- buckwheat
- brown rice
- bran
Consuming psyllium husk may help your heartburn, but
- Diet changes: Along with increasing your fiber, avoid trigger foods, aim for smaller meals, and try not to eat right before bed.
- Maintain a moderate weight: If you have overweight or obesity, reducing your weight may lower abdominal pressure and relieve some heartburn symptoms.
- Try home remedies: Chewing gum, licorice, baking soda, apple cider vinegar, and ginger are popular home remedies. While their results are mixed, a doctor can advise you of any risks.
- Take medications: If medication is needed, a doctor can suggest OTC or prescription medications for heartburn.
Psyllium husk is a type of plant-based soluble fiber commonly found in supplements. It’s used to reduce constipation and may also help reduce heartburn symptoms.
There are few side effects of adding psyllium husk to your lifestyle, but it could interfere with your body’s absorption of certain medications. Speak with a doctor if you’re thinking about using psyllium husk for heartburn.